Monterey Hills 4th Graders Raise More than $9,000 for Afghan Refugees

Monterey Hills Elementary School (MHS) 4th graders recently raised and donated $9,010 to the Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, which has assisted immigrants and refugees for more than 80 years. The donation will help with the relocation of Afghan refugees who escaped their country for safety and were brought to the United States.

The MHS 4th grade tradition of fundraising for causes began in 2015 when students wanted to assist after the earthquake in Nepal. Determined to raise as much money as possible, these students devised a plan to raffle a large mineral specimen as well as sell small minerals to the entire school body. To view a short video clip of this year’s raffle presentation, please visit: https://youtu.be/wA5VZFWsVCE.

In the past, funds have been donated to send Balinese girls to high school, provide cloth diapers, assist the homeless, help build homes for U.S. veterans, assist wildlife rescue, support programs to end worldwide hunger and poverty, and contribute to natural disaster relief. During the last seven years, MHS 4th graders have raised and donated approximately $45,000 to various charities.

These donations would not have been possible without the support of the South Pasadena community and friends who demonstrate compassion and generosity.

Monterey Hills Elementary School, 1624 Via Del Rey, South Pasadena, (626) 441-5860 or visit monterey.spusd.net.

About South Pasadena Unified School District

Established in 1886, the South Pasadena Unified School District (SPUSD) serves approximately 4,800 students within five schools including three elementary schools, one middle school and one comprehensive high school in South Pasadena, California. Nestled in the West San Gabriel Valley, SPUSD has earned a reputation of providing high quality public education, attracting families who value challenging academic programs and outstanding teachers. Consistently recognized for superior performance, SPUSD students earn honors at the local, state and national level. The District draws vital support from parents and community members through the South Pasadena Educational Foundation, local PTAs and booster clubs.

For more information, contact: South Pasadena Unified School District, Office of the Superintendent at scarroll@spusd.net.